Refrain definition

From , , , from ; influenced by , from , for (see ). is from prefix + .

To hold back; to restrain; to keep within prescribed bounds; to curb; to govern.
- Chaucer
  
  His reson refraineth not his foul delight or talent.
- Proverbs i:15.
  
  Refrain thy foot from their path.
To abstain from
- Thomas Browne
  
  Who, requiring a remedy for his gout, received no other counsel than to refrain cold drink.
To keep one's self from action or interference; to hold aloof; to forbear; to abstain.
- Acts 5:38
  
  Refrain from these men, and let them alone.
- Thomas Browne
  
  They refrained therefrom [eating flesh] some time after.

From , from < + ; compare Pr. , . See and the verb to refrain.

The burden of a song; a phrase or verse which recurs at the end of each of the separate stanzas or divisions of a poetic composition. As enjoined by a chorus.

We hear the wild refrain. Whittier.